Sara
Somehow Jen Turano weaves humor into her books with such finesse. You simply cannot read without laughing out loud at some point. Truly it is a joy to read her stories! What I also appreciate is that the female characters are not laughable, but rather strong, charismatic, hard working individuals. The characters are well developed and not lacking in any way. It's not just the hero and heroine that will capture your attention but the supporting characters as well (some of which are not human). While most are likable, watch out for the villain who holds a title - the Duke.
There are plenty of laughable moments, but the story is also faith filled and has a hint of mystery. It's a story that will capture your heart and your attention. If you are looking for a book that is a bit light hearted and will give you a laugh, pick up Flights of Fancy. It's a gem!
As with the entire Blue Justice series, Vow of Justice, brings the action, drama and romance. The St. John family is one of my favorite aspects of the series. It brings about the devotion of family and importance of family ties. In this book, Lincoln is an FBI Special Agent who is left without a partner after an explosion occurs on a houseboat. Allison, his partner, supposedly dies in the explosion. Lincoln sets out to find her killer. Meanwhile, Alli puts her trust in those around her and realizes that this may be a mistake. The storyline is fast paced and intriguing, but the villain is easy to figure out. Even with that being said, I would recommend this suspenseful read!
Colleen Coble does it again! This book is set in Dunedin, Florida which is not far from where I live. She did a wonderful job of capturing the essence of the area, history and overall vibe of Florida. The story is one of mysterious crime and suspense but it feels a bit whimsical as well. Most likely due to the inclusion of the Weeki Wachi mermaids, sea silk and seashells.
The suspense keeps you on the edge until the end. I found the family dynamics as well as the way in which the main character becomes pregnant interesting and unique. The book combines mystery, family dynamics, tragedy and romance. It's a read that keeps you interested from the beginning to the end. Colleen Coble is an author I highly recommend. Strand of Truth is another great book in the long of her books that you should read.
Everyone knows the saying “ Don't judge a book by its cover” but the truth is that some books are just as amazing as their cover - others not so much! Until the Mountains Fall is one of those books that has a cover that is breathtaking and draws you in immediately. Once you open the pages and begin to read, you quickly realize that it's not just the cover that is breathtaking. The story is as just as beautiful and captivating.
The Cities of Refuge series is at the very top of my favorites list. Every book is just as good as the one before it. Until The Mountains Fall is a heart stopping read that takes place in the city of Kedesh. Rivkah and Malakhi are the main characters who are betrothed by an arranged marriage. Not only are there family heritages deep but their spiritual lineages are rooted deeply as well. Rivkah is against the arrangement of her marriage to Malakhi for many reasons. And Malakhi is aware of her feelings and is trying to put his best foot forward. Despite his efforts, Rivkah takes drastic measures that have drastic consequences. Through many twists and turns the characters begin to discover many truths and lies. As you flip the pages you are hit with betrayal, judgement, death but also joy, love and bonds that cannot be broken.
Once you start reading you simply cannot stop! Truly the words on the page are so engaging and tug at your heart with every page you turn. It feels as though you are in the middle of the story and every scene is being played out with vivid color and movement. If you enjoy Francine Rivers Redeeming Love, you must get this series! And that is a very high praise considering, Redeeming Love is number one on my favorite books I've ever read.
Jaime Jo Wright has a way of writing stories with mysterious settings that are oh so creepy. She has also mastered writing plots that weave two different time periods together. I was drawn in right from the start and couldn't read fast enough. The pages come to life with vivid detail and the characters are well thought out. A spiritual thread is woven throughout the pages and provide layers of emotions. I am not a fan of spooky, ghost or creepy books, so I was hesitant to read her first book. Much to my surprise Jaime Jo Wright has penned the words in a way that I can read and be intrigued enough to keep going. I think it is due to the way she goes between time periods and every dark emotion or scene has a reason behind it - never just tossed in for the scare factor.
If you are looking for a unique spooky mystery that is in the genre Christian fiction, you absolutely do not want to miss this book. I highly recommend this book and her other books, as she hits it out of the park!
Even though I read this book in July, the Christmas theme was not overwhelming and did not hinder my reading in the middle of summer. Although the story begins with sadness and brokenness, you will begin to feel the joy and warmth of the story as you keep reading. I wasn't really sure what to expect and I was pleasantly surprised by the beauty in the midst of the sad. It's an overall clean romance but just to note, one of the characters is still married and in a broken marriage while embarking on another relationship. There are a few twists in the story that I wasn't expecting. Overall, I enjoyed this quick read that isn't really about Christmas at all.
If you are looking for a Christmas read, this would probably not be the one for you. But, if you are a Nicholas Sparks fan, you will enjoy this read anytime of year.
When not one but three of your favorite authors come together for a suspense novella, it's a must read! I have yet to read a book that I didn't love by these three authors of romantic suspense. The three novellas do not intertwine, so each is a unique story. You may however recognize characters involved from previous books. On one hand it connects readers who've read their other novels, but then if you have not, you may feel a little behind on character development. Either way, they are still enjoyable and easy reads.
Out of the three, Lynette Eason's is my favorite. Betrayal is a definite thread through each story but the suspense is excellent with just a touch of romance. I would recommend this read for anyone who enjoys these Christian Fiction authors. And if you have not read a book by these three, you should! I highly recommend all three authors and I read every book they have published!
Fun read for the pool or beach! The plot reminded me immediately of a Hallmark movie about a football player and his assistant. But despite the feeling that I already knew the storyline, I still kept reading. Cecilia works for NFL quarterback Wade Carter for years. During a family crisis, he returns to his hometown and Cecilia goes with him. He doesn't seem to see her as anything but his left tackle, until she gives him her resignation. And it just gets better from there. There is a Tara like plantation that is mentioned often. I have to say that this detail alone kept me intrigued. Who doesn't love Gone With The Wind! It does have a bit of a Scarlett and Rhett feel to it.
Couldn't put this one down! Deadly Intentions is full of suspense, twists, and secrets. It does have a hint of romance, but it is heavier on the suspense and crime plot. I truly enjoyed this read! Caitlyn is a scientist and when another co-worker ends up dead with an unlikely reason, she begins to have questions. Those questions are what put her own life in danger. She has one person she can turn to for help, a deceased co-worker's husband, Detective Josh Solomon. Although he is hesitant to believe her theories, he quickly realizes that she is on to something. Together they work to find out who is killing her co-workers and why they want them dead. If you like crime tv shows, you will enjoy this fast paced book!
Lavender fields, tea rooms and a path to the beach set the scene for an emotional, charming and beautiful storyline. Jeanette hopes for a fresh start when setting up her lavender farm and tea room in the seaside town of Hope Harbor. Her neighbor, Dr. Logan West's life has taken a turn with the loss of close family and he is struggling to keep up with his new role that he inherited. The main characters are wonderful and the supporting characters are also very captivating. The storyline is full of loss and the pain of losing someone you love. It intertwines three situations of loss and hope in the process of trying to pick up the pieces. Most intriguing is the relationship that develops between two children who cannot speak the same language but develop a bond over the loss of loved ones. They don't need to speak to each other in order to give comfort and hope to one another. It's a beautiful side story within the main storyline, one that I won't soon forget.
While it is filled with painful emotional scenes that pull at your heart strings, it also has sprinkled in laughable scenes and of course love in all capacities. You will feel a full range of emotions while reading this lovely book. This Hope Harbor novel was one that I couldn't put down and read straight through on a sleepless night.
Denise Hunter is at the top of my author list and On Magnolia Lane is right on par. She has managed to captivate me with another romance. This time it is between a pastor and the town florist. Jack's friends convince him to chat with Daisy through a dating app, but she doesn't know that TJ and Jack are one and the same. It brings to light the fact that pastor's are human and have real life struggles. Both Jack and Daisy have to resolve issues of trust, honesty and love. It's a sweet romance with faith intertwined. Great characters, plot and setting!
In Too Deep takes you on a dive into an under water investigation with a tie to human trafficking. The author brings a storyline that is fast paced and keeps you wanting more. The characters were well developed and had interesting backgrounds. Adam is the dive investigator called to the scene of a crime involving a submerged car and laptop. Dr. Sabrina Fleming is a professor who is very intelligent but lacks social skills. The two will work together to unravel the mystery. The plot was suspenseful and full of drama from beginning to end. It had me on the edge of my seat. If you enjoy suspense with a bit of romance and scuba diving, you won't want to miss this read!
Over the Line brings to light mainstream topics and real life struggles. It includes gun smuggling, murder, immigration, border control and more. I appreciated the variety of people as well, from Natalie (the main character's sister) being in a wheelchair to Eli (the main male character) who is trying to stay clear of old habits. The author weaves these topics into the storyline well and develops the backstory throughout. There are two romances that are developing, which is a good contrast and keeps you coming back.
Overall it did move a bit slow for me and took a bit to get into. The relationship between the main characters was a bit frustrating at times. If you are looking for a suspenseful romance with mainstream headlines, you will enjoy Over the Line.
After reading Wait for Me, I had to get the entire Montana Rescue series. I read Wait For Me first but realized that to truly appreciate the depth of the main characters relationship, I needed to go back and read them all. So, you could read this book as a stand alone, but I highly recommend reading the series in order (from what I've been told from others who've read the entire series).
Pete is a member of PEAK rescue team and full of adventure, but you get to see a vulnerable side as well. Jess is caught between living a double life and pleasing people. I enjoyed each of the characters including the supporting characters. The plot is engaging and well developed. If you are looking for a suspenseful, adventurous, romance then this book checks all of the boxes.
What do you get when you combine friendship, chocolate and a love story - a fabulous book titled Sweet On You by Becky Wade. It is the third book in the Bradford Sisters Series. My only regret is not reading the first two before I read this one. It is certainly capable of standing on its own, but I can only imagine the richness it would have brought to know the other sisters and their stories before diving into Britt and Zander's story. Britt is following her dream of creating chocolate treats in her own shop. Zander is traveling the world when he is hit with news of his Uncle's death. When he returns to his hometown to sort out the details, Britt is thrilled to see her best friend. But, for Zander it's much more than that. He's been in love with her for years and everyone but Britt can see it. Can he maintain a friendship without exposing his true feelings? Will Britt discover a deeper truth? And a not-to-be forgotten twist of mystery surrounding his Uncle's death. Sweet On You brings romance, friendship, faith and mystery together in a way that warms your spirit and awakes deeper thoughts. I will now be going back to read the previous sisters stories as I can't wait to see what I missed!
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
With a series title of Coastal Guardians and the book title of The Killing Tide, it was a for sure add to my reading list. Dani Pettrey is an author I have read time and time again. She does a superb job of writing suspenseful romance and creating series where you learn about all of the characters lives. But with that said, The Killing Tide didn't quite hit the same mark for me as some of her other series. The storyline follows Gabby (the main female character) as she goes back to her home town for safety after her life is threatened. Finn Walker, who works under her brother as a Coast Guard Investigator, is working on a horrible crime and the bodies keep piling up. Gabby and Finn have a rocky past, but he is in charge of keeping her safe. Meanwhile, she just can't stop her investigative instincts as a reporter. She is consistently putting herself and others in dangerous positions to get the story.
First, let me state that the author does an excellent job of capturing your attention with intensity and suspense from the first chapters. But along with that you are introduced to many characters and scenes that you are trying to keep straight and figure out. So, while I did like that it started off with a bang (literally), it was confusing at times. Once you get further into the chapters, the story is easier to follow and keeps you on edge. You will want to read to the end and won't be disappointed!
Most of the characters are easy to relate to and I do look forward to learning more about them in the next book. In this book, Gabby's character was one that I just did not like. But I don't think you should like every character in a book, even if they are the main character. It just makes you engage with the character in a different way. Her constant disregard for people and their safety was unnerving. She truly only cared about getting the story, no matter the cost. And her idea of being a friend was not my definition of friend. Her behavior goes against my grain, and although I didn't like that in her character it was also a way to see things from a different perspective.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and the suspense. It may not be my favorite book by this author, but it's worth a read.
*I received an ebook review copy of this book through NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The Anne Chapter books are a series and should be read in order for young children to follow the story. Of course if you already know the classic tale, then reading them as a stand alone is just fine. These chapter books are great adaption for younger readers to be introduced to Anne of Green Gables early on. The illustrations are detailed and help tell the story in picture. The story adaption keeps some of my favorite dialogue and Anne quotes. I'm so glad it wasn't changed for the younger age or current times. Young readers will enjoy becoming a part of Anne with an “e” story. It's a great introduction for children to begin their classic reading journey!
** I received a copy of the book from the publisher. All opinions are my own and an honest review of the book.
Whose Waves These Are is Amanda Dykes debut novel. What a debut it is! The story time hops from one generation to another and melds the two together. Get ready to ride on a wave of emotions and it begins with the opening chapter. As one twin brother is reading a letter from the local draft board, the other twin is beaming with news about a new arrival. And that is just the beginning! The characters are well developed. The setting of Ansel-By-The-Sea in Maine is breathtaking and quaint. Living by the ocean and what the sounds, smells and views do for my soul is hard to capture. But somehow the author is able to use ocean imagery and words that are deeply moving and capture your senses. You will be moved by this story and I can't promise that your eyes won't get misty. I'm always impressed when a fiction story can bring about more than just a story line but also a message filled with hope and learned lessons. Whose Waves These Are is a book that I will not soon forget. I'm looking forward to future books written by Amanda Dykes!
**I received a review copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and this is my honest review.
“A friend is one who overlooks your broken fence and admires the flowers in your garden.” - Quote from Becoming Us that is now a favorite of mine! Robin Jones Gunn has been writing books that I could not put down since I was a teenager. The Christy Miller series would get me in trouble often when my parents would find me with a flashlight at bedtime because I had to read “just one more chapter”. One of the things I so enjoy about that series and now this new book is that the characters are relatable and feel as if you've met them. Once you've read the books, you feel as though the characters are long time friends and you pick up right where you left off. In Becoming Us, the storyline is of blooming friendships but in a world where we have pain, skepticism and we are fearful of sharing too much. Even as adults friendships can be a rocky path and hard to develop, Becoming Us touches on just that. This book is fiction but it gives you scenarios that are true-to-life and the wisdom provided from one character to another is applicable. If you have ever read any of the author's works, you will be familiar with her writing style. Her books are warm, encouraging but full of every day life, nothing that is far fetched or unbelievable. You will also be visited by characters from her other series as supporting roles in Becoming Us. You do not need to have read any previous books in order to follow this one, but if you have you will feel the warm and fuzzies when you read about familiar names. As with all of Robin's previous books, I highly recommend this one.
When I read a book I am all in, I can hear, see and feel what the characters are going through. Towards the end of the book, as I read the words they took my breath away. I felt angry, sad but also understanding of the twists and turns. If you are one who doesn't like a predictable ending – this one is for you!
It is historical fiction with Christian themes throughout. I really like that the author doesn't hold back, as it is not a fluffy storyline. It is messy, descriptive and raw. It doesn't cross any lines, but also paints a realistic picture of the time period. Many strong female characters including the main character. Without giving any details or spoilers, my recommendation is to read this book if you like historical fiction about war and don't like fairytale endings.
Each page is beautifully designed, thoughtfully written and packed with stories of women – inspiring women! The quotes and stories in this book come from journeys of all different paths but they all have something that ties them together – WOMEN! It's as though you are walking alongside and listening to the story of each individual. Each with unique circumstances, genres and reasons why. It is a collection of young and old, new and seasoned, famous and not-so-famous all in one beautiful book. This book will challenge you to think, engage your emotions and spark your imagination. To see the stories of so many women in a wonderfully curated compilation of bound pages is remarkable. We all need inspiration and wisdom throughout our journey and you will find it throughout this book. It is an excellent gift for friends, daughters and yourself.
Thank you to NetGalley & Quarto Publishing Group for my e-copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
Not only does Kay give us relatable stories and words of wisdom from great leaders, she gives you the keys to replace your overwhelmed, stressful, pressure-filled life with truth, grace and freedom! Her words remind us that overwhelm is simply “Not The Boss of Us“. She brings together the information in an easy to read but power packed book. It is so relevant in our current society where striving for perfection and staying busy is the norm. Inside the pages, you will find encouragement and specific steps to replace your negative overwhelm with positive actions and attitudes. This book could not have come to me at a better time. She includes practical applications in each chapter titled “Water Station”. These nuggets of wisdom were a great reference and easy to come back to for future reference. I highly recommend this book for women of all ages and stages of life. If you are in a place of overwhelm, this is the read for you!
Thank you to Revell for my copy in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
The title of this book drew me in before I even knew what was on the pages inside. The cover is captivating, warm and very bookish.Everything written is not for every reader and Book Girl happens to be one of those books for me.While most of the authors mentioned are notable and quite a few works are indeed worthy reads, I personally am not drawn to books of this nature at this point in my life. Although I will recommend it for those who are looking for deep introspective and literary fiction, specifically that is rooted in theology. For many readers, this will be a trusty companion with many book lists that will start you on the path of becoming a book girl. In my humble opinion, you can also find your way down that path with many other non-theological and literary fiction books not mentioned in the book. If you are looking for a breezy book about books, this may not be the place to start. Are C.S. Lewis, Wendell Berry and J.R. Tolkien's books drawing you toward the shelves, if so then Book Girl will be a great choice to add to your TBR (to be read) pile.
Another great book written by Kate DiCamillo accompanied by beautiful illustrations. Rosie is a good dog and making friends is not always easy. She is lonely and wants to make friends but is not quite sure how to go about such a task. When her owner, George, takes her to a dog park she is in for an adventure. After meeting Maurice, a big St. Bernard, who mistakes Fifi, a small Chihuahua, as a toy, Rosie is more uncertain about making new friends. This book is funny and accurately depicts the behaviors of pets and animals. The illustrations are a great introduction for young readers to graphic novels. This would be a great book for a classroom to begin a conversation on making friends. This book is great for a gift as it can be enjoyed by many ages. Along with myself, my 10 yr old and 6 yr old read together and we all wanted to read again!
Thank you to the publisher for my copy of the book. All opinions are my own
Love On A Limb is an unconventional love story that is full of emotion, friendship, devotion and faith. It is a slow burn romance and grab the tissues, you will need them. Although born out of a dark situation, their love transcends the darkness and brings about light. Mikaela makes the decision to be “all in” even when things go downhill and their love begins to bloom. While Matt struggles with his emotions and the reality of his looming illness and what the future may or may not hold.Even as Matt tries to distance family and friends, loyalty prevails and shines brightly even in his poker playing college buddies. Without giving any spoilers, I enjoyed where the story leads you and how the memories between them are documented. This book is one that I would highly recommend. It is inspirational, clean and tugs at your heart strings.